Uzbekistan’s Tourism Achievements in 2024 and Vision for 2025:…

Uzbekistan’s tourism sector thrived in 2024, hosting 10.2 million international visitors and generating $3.5 billion in revenue. Domestic tourism also rose with 22.7 million visits. The country expanded its hospitality offerings significantly and enhanced its global presence through strategic partnerships. Recognized for its achievements, Uzbekistan sets ambitious tourism goals for 2025 with a focus on sustainable growth and infrastructural development.

In 2024, Uzbekistan’s tourism sector witnessed remarkable advancements, welcoming 10.2 million international visitors and generating $3.5 billion in revenue—an increase of 1.5 times compared to 2023. Key contributors to this growth included China, Italy, India, and Germany, each marking significant increases in arrivals. Additionally, domestic tourism thrived with 22.7 million visits, aided by the ‘Travel Around Uzbekistan!’ initiative, and 51,000 new jobs were created in the tourism and hospitality sectors, thereby enhancing the local economy.

To meet the rising demand for accommodations, Uzbekistan expanded its hospitality infrastructure substantially, adding 124 new hotels and 239 hostels, resulting in over 6,100 properties with a total of 161,000 beds. Renowned international brands such as Azimut, Bentley, and Hilton established operations in major cities including Tashkent, Samarkand, and Termez. Furthermore, the number of travel agencies increased to 3,686 with 866 new establishments, and the training of 700 new certified guides raised the total to 3,200.

Uzbekistan strengthened its global presence by engaging in strategic partnerships with major media outlets like BBC and CNN and participating in 22 international travel fairs across 19 countries. Initiatives like the ‘Year of Uzbekistan Tourism in China’, launched in December 2024, played a pivotal role in promoting the country. The government also organized roadshows in prominent markets, including China, Iran, and the UK, to further enhance its visibility.

In the context of regional tourism, Uzbekistan took the initiative in the ‘Central Asian Tourist Ring’ project, aimed at enhancing visitor experiences. The Tashkent International Tourism Fair (TITF) 2024 featured over 20,000 participants, showcasing tourism potentials alongside neighboring countries like Georgia and Kazakhstan.

Numerous international awards underscored Uzbekistan’s tourism successes in 2024. Notably, the UN World Tourism Organization recognized Uzbekistan as the “Second Best Destination” for tourism revenue growth, and the World Economic Forum honored it as the most active country in tourism development. Additionally, the country was awarded the ‘Best Developing Destination’ title at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards.

Looking ahead to 2025, Uzbekistan aims for an ambitious tourism strategy, anticipating 11 million international arrivals and $3.8 billion in revenue. The Uzbekistan Tourism Strategy 2040 will steer these efforts, focusing on sustainable growth, hospitality expansion, and targeted marketing campaigns in the USA and China. The country plans to host over 20 cultural events in China and CIS nations as part of the “Year of Uzbekistan Tourism,” emphasizing its commitment to becoming a premier global travel destination.

In conclusion, Uzbekistan’s tourism progress in 2024 has laid a strong foundation for future growth. With a focus on sustainable practices and extensive infrastructure development, the country seeks to enhance its global standing and attract more visitors. The ambitious goals set for 2025, including substantial revenue growth and cultural initiatives, reflect Uzbekistan’s determination to establish itself as a leading destination in the international tourism arena.

Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com